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One

Mona

Twelve years old…

Da-dum Da-dum Da-dum

Closing my eyes, I listen to Clara’s heartbeat It soothes e it’s sheltered inside My eyes feel heavy, but I strain to keep the

“Sleep, Mona” My sister’s words hu her chest ruainst hers

“Will you be here when I wake up?” I ask, already knowing the lie she’ll give me

“Of course”

Liar, liar, tongue on fire

She breathes, stroking her finger downto steal you away from here Show you all the wonders that live beyond this island,” she whispers, cautious not to be caught speaking of such things

My mind drifts to the shoreline Visions of our day play like aher toes into the water,to be the beast that lives in the depths of the waters

“Daddy says we’re to take over as leaders once we’re old enough” I sigh, hating the idea of having to stand up and preach words I don’t believe in to worshippers blinded by the proives them

I feel her exhale, the chest I lay upon deflating “Do you not want to see what’s beyond our life here, Mona?”

I do Some to explore, to discover if the world beyond ours is truly as bad as father says

“I want adventure,” I utter, hiding own Her sh my hair as she says, “And you will have it I proether”

Looking around the dull gray roo the space, I breathe, “When?” I stare up into her brown oval eyes Delight dances in the them almost appear amber

“When you’re old enough, I pro of…” she says enthusiastically,froot your birthday present”

Exciterin “But it’s not until next month”

“Since when do I follow the rules?” She quirks a brow, her dark curly locks falling around her face “Close your eyes,” she instructs in a giddy tone

Doing as I’m told, I close my eyes and holdme bounce a little on the mattress with anticipation